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Weekend Getaways

After a long work week in the city, a weekend escape is a must. Whether you arrive by land, by sea or by air, these nearby destinations boast new or freshly renovated hotels, bars and restos along with super summer packages and cultural happenings. From the hip Hamptons and lively New York City to the happenin’ streets of NOLA and the sandy beaches of Florida, these dreamy locales deliver on sun, fun and good times. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your besties and a couture carry-on, and get ready to soak up the easy-breezy season of summer!

STAYIslander Resort
Islamorada’s Islander Resort is the latest rustic resort from the Guy Harvey Outpost Resort family, which swung open its doors last June. Quaint cottages shaded by palms inhabit 25 oceanfront acres where an outdoorsman’s paradise awaits. Hop aboard a 40-foot sailing catamaran for a snorkel cruise above and below the emerald waters, or explore the island’s natural beauty by bike. If R&R is more your style, head to the poolside Guy’s Beachside Bar & Grill, or grab a cocktail in The Trophy Room social lounge. Overnight rates from $179, @islander_flkeys

Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel & Resort
Whether you stay in one of Tranquility Bay’s 16 new Tropical Garden guest rooms or go bigger in one of the resort’s threebedroom beach houses, the resort’s accommodations are unparalleled. Luxe linens, beachy-chic decor and to-die-for views make each room the best in the house. Amenities abound: There are three pools, 1,000 feet of shoreline with nearly 3 acres of sandy beaches for on-site watersports, inroom spa services and more. At the end of the day, pull up a seat at the beachside TJ’s Tiki Bar, which serves up tropical cocktails that will have you toasting the good life. Overnight rates from $251, @tranqbayresort

PARTYSchooner Wharf Bar
For a true Key West experience, throw one back at the recently expanded Schooner Wharf Bar. With a drink menu of over 30 specialty cocktails, it’s the perfect vacay indulgence (Wasted Away margarita, anyone?). Snag a spot on the brand-new second-floor deck and be wowed by insane views of the seaport’s jaw-dropping luxury yachts.

Margaux at The Marlton Hotel in Greenwich Village, NYC

Key West Legal Rum Distillery
A first for the Florida Keys, chef Paul Menta’s Legal Rum Distillery recently launched in Key West at a former Coca-Cola bottling plant. Enjoy free rum samples—just buy one of the cola brand’s classic glass bottles. A must-sip is the Legal Vanilla Rum & Coke, a unique twist on a classic.

MARK YOUR CALENDARThird Thursdays
Absorb some culture (hey, man can’t live on cocktails alone!), every third Thursday of the summer, when the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District showcases fine arts, food and live music. We’re totes there for their next 200-person dinner party!

Anything That Floats Race
It’s sink or swim in Key Largo Aug. 16. Grab your oars, and expect the unexpected at this crazy festival—an on-the-water race of vessels crafted from, well, anything that floats! Not up to building your own boat? Take in the spectacle from waterfront bars and restaurants, surrounded by live music and questionable behavior. -JT